Damen Compact Crafts, part of Damen Shipyards Group, has partnered with Dutch 3D-printing firm CEAD to develop a 3D-printed high-density polyethylene (HDPE) workboat. The project is being carried out at CEAD’s Maritime Application Center (MAC) in Delft.
The partnership aims to evaluate the use of large-format 3D printing in the production of small workboats. The hull of the vessel will be printed using CEAD’s HDPro material. A Damen statement noted the goal is to assess the potential benefits of additive manufacturing in producing vessels used for inspection, support, patrol, and logistical tasks.
Damen is leading the vessel design while CEAD is contributing large-format printing technology and developing techniques for processing HDPE blends. The effort marks a test case for integrating 3D-printed components into workboats and may expand to include recycled and renewable material inputs.
The statement said this project brings together CEAD’s experience in composite 3D printing with Damen’s specialization in designing compact craft for commercial marine applications. The parties are using this project to study the potential of additive manufacturing as a production method for small vessels, with a focus on material efficiency and modular production techniques.
“This collaboration demonstrates how technology can directly contribute to practical solutions in the maritime sector,” said Charléne van Wingerden, chief business development officer at CEAD. “The MAC was founded to accelerate exactly these kinds of innovations – and a 3D-printed HWB is a perfect example of that.”
